Senate to investigate drug war killings starting Oct 28

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino 'Koko' Pimentel III announced that a Senate investigation into killings linked to the government's war on drugs will begin on October 28.

Pimentel, who will chair the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee's probe, said around four victims are expected to testify at the start of their probe and invited former President Rodrigo Duterte and other key figures for testimony.

The committee expects approximately three hearings to cover the drug war, with Senator Joel Villanueva potentially serving as Subcommittee chairperson since Pia Cayetano is abroad.

Pimentel dismissed calls for Senators Bong Go and Ronald 'Bato' dela Rosa to take indefinite leave during the probe, stating their presence would not affect its credibility.

Former Police Colonel Royina Garma's claims of a cash reward system for drug war killings prompted Senate Blue Ribbon Committee chair Pimentel to initiate this independent investigation.